How to Customize Gunstock With Linseed Oil

Written by jeremiah blanchard| 13/05/2017

A rich coloured gunstock finished can be achieved using linseed oil. (rifle image by studio vision 1 from Fotolia.com)

All hunters and gun enthusiasts take pride in their guns. Many choose to customise their weapons to add a personal touch. One way to customise the gunstock is to refinish it with linseed oil. A gunstock can become worn and lose its polished finish over time. Linseed oil will add a personal touch to the stock, and make it look like new.

Things you need

120-grit sandpaper

400-grit sandpaper

.0000 steel wool

Cloths

Linseed oil or pre-boiled linseed oil

Unload the weapon completely. Visually inspect the weapon to ensure that no live ammunition is present.

Remove the stock from the weapon. As all gun models vary, consult your owner's manual for stock removal.

Remove the old finish using 120-grit sandpaper. Ensure that all of the original finish is gone, and that no rough spots are evident. Wipe off the stock with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust.

Sand the stock using 400-grit sandpaper; continue sanding until the stock is smooth. Feel for any rough spots. Wipe the stock with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust

Graze over the stock with .0000 steel wool. This will create a light recess, which will help to hold the oil and allow it to penetrate into the wood.

Boil 2 cups of linseed oil for 10 minutes; allow the oil to cool. You can also buy boiled linseed oil.

Rub the oil into the stock; use a circular motion. Ensure that the entire stock has been coated. Place the stock in a warm, dry area. Let the oil soak into the gunstock for a few days. Repeat applications until you're satisfied with the finish. Every linseed treatment will produce a richer look.

Tips

You can apply a coating such as carnuba wax or a polyurethane coat after the linseed treatment. This will help to protect the finish.

Warnings

Never attempt maintenance on a loaded firearm. Never point a weapon at anything that you do not intend to shoot or kill.

Tips and Warnings

You can apply a coating such as carnuba wax or a polyurethane coat after the linseed treatment. This will help to protect the finish.

Never attempt maintenance on a loaded firearm.

Never point a weapon at anything that you do not intend to shoot or kill.